Chapter 4: Trials by Fire
The morning of the final assessment dawned overcast and gloomy, mirroring Shivanya's nerves. After months of grueling training, this was her chance to prove herself.
As recruits assembled on the parade ground, Major Singh addressed them sternly. Today you will be put through realistic combat simulations to test everything you've learned. There will be no second chances out there. Only the best will pass.
The group was divided and briefed about mock enemy positions in the dense forest terrain. Shivanya's squad set off on their mission-infiltrate enemy camps and extract crucial intel without detection.
Moving stealthily through the foliage, they neared the first camp. Shivanya signalled her squad to surround it from all sides. On her go, they charged in and subdued the 'enemy' swiftly with stun grenades and maneuvers.
Moving ahead, they faced greater challenges-ambushes, booby traps, close combat. Drawing on all her training, Shivanya led her squad through with strategic calls and quick thinking. By evening, they had completed their objectives successfully, without any casualties.
As dusk fell, an exhausted but thrilled Shivanya met Major Singh for his evaluation. Well done, he said gruffly. You displayed strong leadership, tactics and presence of mind out there. Pass with distinction.
Shivanya beamed, her dream within grasp. But their celebration was cut short when Major Singh received an urgent radio call. Two squads were trapped by a sudden enemy counterattack deeper in the forest, with no extraction route.
Major Singh's eyes met Shivanya's grimly. Can you lead a rescue mission in these conditions, in the dark? There is no time to waste. Lives are at stake.
Shivanya steeled her nerves. Sir, give me another squad. We will get our recruits back, no matter what it takes.
Major Singh nodded approvingly. Move out immediately, and be careful. May luck be on your side.
Shivanya rallied her new squad and they headed into the dense forest under the shroud of night. Navigating through treacherous terrain in the dark was a challenge.
After an hour of careful movement, they heard distant gunfire up ahead. Closing in cautiously, they saw the trapped squads engaged in a fierce firefight, severely outnumbered by the 'enemy'.
Shivanya signalled her squad to flank the enemy camp from both sides. On her command, they opened fire in a pincer attack, catching the 'enemy' by surprise. Within minutes, they had gained the upper hand.
As the 'enemy' retreated, Shivanya and her squad rushed to the aid of the trapped recruits. A few were injured, but thanks to her timely rescue, none seriously.
Major Singh arrived shortly after with reinforcements. Well done, girl, he said gruffly. You displayed exemplary leadership, tactics and courage out here today. I'm proud to have trained such an officer.
Shivanya beamed with pride and exhaustion. It was all because of your guidance sir. Now, can we please get some well-earned rest?
Major Singh allowed a rare smile. Yes, you've all earned it. Now move out - and well done once again.
As Shivanya walked back with her squad, she knew this trial had truly sealed her place. All her sacrifices had paid off, paving the way for a future in service of her beloved nation. Little did she know how her life was about to change with her next posting.,,
YOU ARE READING
Duty And Destiny
RomanceShivanya, determined to become a Jag officer, finds her life taking an unexpected turn when she joins a training academy. However, her journey is far from easy as she encounters her mentor, Rudra, known for his relentless and rigorous training metho...
